The Importance of Rest
Follow God’s Example
In the creation story, God rested on the seventh day after His work, modeling the importance of rest for us.
This divine example highlights a rhythm that we, too, are meant to follow—working purposefully but also pausing intentionally.
Our human limits require time for renewal, allowing us to be more effective and stay aligned with what God has called us to do.
1. The Physical and Spiritual Necessity of Rest
We often push ourselves relentlessly, expecting high performance without allowing time for rest.
But without regular breaks, our effectiveness diminishes.
Many people even forego vacations or breaks for years, mistakenly believing this continuous work honors God or personal commitment.
However, rest is crucial to maintain our well-being, sustain relationships, and renew our commitment to our callings.
2. The Story of Elijah’s Burnout (1 Kings 19:1-8)
The prophet Elijah’s experience is a powerful illustration of the need for rest.
After a major victory, where he demonstrated God’s power by calling fire down from heaven.
Elijah faced intense pressure when Jezebel threatened his life.
This drove him to a place of despair and exhaustion under the juniper tree, where he even asked God to end his life.
Elijah’s despair was not due to a lack of faith or purpose—it was sheer exhaustion.
In His wisdom, God responded not with reprimand but with care.
He let Elijah sleep and then provided food through an angel.
After this period of rest and nourishment, Elijah was physically and spiritually recharged, able to continue his journey for another 40 days.
3. Taking Breaks as a Form of Self-Care
We sometimes underestimate how rejuvenating a simple day of rest, good sleep, and nourishing food can be.
Taking a day to refresh physically can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being, often alleviating frustration and bringing clarity.
4. Resting Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
Some believe that rest requires elaborate vacations or costly retreats, but it doesn’t need to be expensive.
If finances are a barrier, consider visiting a friend’s home, spending time with family, or finding a quiet spot close to home to unplug and rest.
What matters is creating a space to rest in peace, free from distractions.
5. Integrating Rest into Weekly and Annual Rhythms
Incorporating regular rest periods into our routines keeps us grounded. Just as Elijah rested after his strenuous work in 1 Kings 18,
taking time to rest each week, as well as scheduling longer breaks each year, helps us maintain our strength and focus.
6. Avoiding Physical and Emotional Burnout
Ignoring the need for rest can have costly consequences.
Often, overworked individuals eventually find themselves forced to take a break under doctor’s orders—when the cost is higher and the impact of burnout is greater.
Instead, we can prevent this by following the rhythm God intended: work with purpose and rest with intention.
7. God’s Design for Our Bodies
God designed us to need and benefit from rest.
Recognizing our limitations and respecting our bodies’ needs is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom.
In doing so, we honor God’s design, following His example from creation, and equip ourselves to live out His calling effectively.
In embracing the rest God has modeled and encouraged, we not only refresh our physical strength but also renew our spirit, ready to step forward with clarity and purpose.
Source: (Open Heavens Devotional)- Pastor E. A. Adeboye RCCG
